Dhauladhar Wildlife Sanctuary

Why in News?

A Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia) has been photographed for the first time in the Dhauladhar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh.

Location and Establishment

The Dhauladhar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh and was established in 1994. The sanctuary covers an altitude range of approximately 1,600–4,500 metres above sea level.

Geographical Features

The sanctuary is dominated by the Dhauladhar and Bara Bhangal ranges, which occupy a major portion of its natural landscape. Its terrain consists of large bare granite rocks and snow-covered peaks, giving it a predominantly high-altitude environment.

Vegetation and Flora

The sanctuary mainly has Western Mixed Coniferous Forest vegetation. Important plant species include Deodar, Fir, Spruce, Blue Pine and Oak, along with extensive alpine pastures.

Fauna

The sanctuary supports several high-altitude species, including Musk Deer, Himalayan Black Bear, Serow, Himalayan Weasel and Himalayan Palm Civet. Important birds found here include the Cheer Pheasant, Western Tragopan and Speckled Wood-Pigeon.

Snow Leopard

The Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia) is a high-altitude carnivore adapted to cold, rugged mountain environments. Its first photographic record in the sanctuary highlights the biodiversity value of the Dhauladhar landscape and the importance of conserving high-altitude habitats